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Developmental disabilities are a diverse group of severe chronic conditions that are due to mental and/or physical impairments. People with developmental disabilities have problems with major life activities such as language, mobility, learning, self-help and independent living. Developmental disabilities begin anytime during development up to 22 years of age and usually last throughout a person’s lifetime.
Source: Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
It is the mission of WSMRCA/Austin Special to meet the needs of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, especially those with severe and profound mental retardation; to provide training and education so that they may have more fulfilled and enriched lives; and to assist their families to keep them in the community.
WSMRCA operates the Austin Special Developmental Training Center and the Austin Special Residential Services for people living in the Chicago community regardless of age, race, color, disability, financial standing, religion, sex, national origin, or ancestry.
Developmental Training Program
The DT program offers vocational, social, and educational services to adults 18 years and older. Services provided include vocational training, general counseling, speech, basic academics, daily living skills, recreational activities, art, transportation, and participation in Special Olympics and community-based mainstream activities.
Residential Program
WSMRCA operates CILA (Community Integrated Living Arrangement) group homes. Each CILA house provides services to eight or fewer adults who are unable to live independently, but are capable of community living with an appropriate level of supervision, assistance, and supportive services.
